Sunday 13 October 2013

Eat Healthy

Here are two healthy meals that can go with a salad at the side two meals i made today :)

 Note : no oil was used to cook with as a little fat was left on the chicken skin was removed ....
The mashed potatoes has Mrs.Dash Garlic and herb also the Onion Blend

Saturday 5 October 2013

Headache

Headache

The most common type of headache is a tension headache which causes a constant ache and tightness around head and behind the eyes, and neck. Tension headache usually last for a few hours and are commonly due to stressfatigue, or poor posture, which may cause tension in the neck and scalp. The causes of headaches vary, and constant recurrence may indicate an underlying condition. Other causes include certain foods, poor eyesight, constipation, hunger or dehydration, high blood pressure,low blood sugarinsomnia, exposure to cold temperatures, and changes in the menstrual cycle. Headaches also occur with illnesses such as the flu and can be a symptom of meningitis. 

Home Remedies
  • Ginger: Make a paste out of 1 teaspoon ginger powder (or 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder) and sufficient water, and apply this paste to forehead. Leave it on for about half an hour and then wash it off. (Note: Ginger paste can sometimes create a burning sensation on the skin. It is not dangerous, but if you begin to feel an burning sensation, wash the ginger off with warm water).
  • Eucalyptus: Take eucalyptus steam. Put 10 drops of eucalyptus oil in boiled water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam.
  • Steam inhalation: Boiling fresh ginger or dried ginger powder in water and then inhaling the steam is also effective.
For tension headache:
  • Massage you temples with a couple of drops of lavender essential oil. Lavender eases physical and mental stress.
For chronic headache:
  • Hot foot bath: Hot foot baths are also beneficial. Keep legs in a tub or bucket filled with hot water at a temperature of 40˚C to 45˚C for fifteen minutes every night before retiring. This treatment should be continued for two or three weeks.
  • Apple: Eat a ripe apple (remove the upper rind and the inner hard portion) with a little salt every morning on an empty stomach. Take this continuously for about a week.
For sinus headache:
  • Cinnamon: Make a paste out of 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and sufficient water, and apply locally.
  • Nasal drop: Mix 1 teaspoon warm water and at least 1/8 teaspoon salt to make a concentrated solution. Put 3-4 drops of this salt water in each nostril. This helps to drain and unclog the sinuses and relieve the headache.
  • Spicy food: Eat spicy foods such as horseradish and hot peppers which increases the flow of blood and loosen the secretions of mucus in the sinuses.
For headache due to hyperacidity:
  • Aloe vera: Take 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel, up to 3 times a day.
  • Sandalwood: Apply a paste of sandalwood to forehead.
  • Ghee: Put few drops of warm ghee in each nostril.
Do's
  • Rest in a quiet room, in darkness or with dimmed lights. Make sure of getting enough sleep at night.
  • Massage the muscles at the back of neck and shoulder in a gentle circular motion with sesame oil. Then take a hot shower.
  • Try using heat to soothe the pain: fill a hot-water bottle, wrap it in a towel, and rest your head on it.
  • Try aerobic exercise, yoga, or deep breathing or relaxation exercises.
  • If working at a desk or computer workstation, get up and walk around regularly to reduce tension in your neck and shoulders.
  • Have your eyesight checked.
  • Build up physical resistance through proper nutrition, exercise and positive thinking to prevent headache.
Don’ts
  • Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine in excess, and smoking.
  • Avoid red meat, nuts, and chocolate.
  • Avoid Spices, condiments, sour buttermilk, and oily foodstuffs.
See Doctor
  • Headache has not cleared up within a day or two or is becoming more severe.
  • Feeling that your headache is not a simple tension headache.
  • Recurrent headaches or need to use analgesics regularly.
See doctor immediately if:
  • Stiff neck, sensitivity to light, fevervomiting, or rash.
  • Drowsiness and blurred vision.
  • Limb weakness.

Backache/Back pain

Backache/Back pain

Almost everyone has low back pain at one time or another. It has become an occupational hazard in many different kinds of work (like sitting at a desk in front of a computer, lifting heavy loads etc). Low back pain is often caused by overuse, strain, or injury. Most sudden back pain is due to a sprain or a small tear in a muscle or ligament. Having a nagging ache in lower back or a sharp, localized pain and stiffness is due to a muscle spasm in the area. The usual causes of back pain and sciatica include lifting awkwardly or sudden twisting, but factors such as poor posture, pregnancy, and being inactive or unfit may make the back more vulnerable. Less often, low back pain is the result of arthritis, compression fractures caused by bone loss (osteoporosis), illness, or a spine problem that you may have had since you were born. Emotional factors can also lead to back pain. People who aredepressed, under stress, or unhappy in their work are more likely to have chronic back pain. Most back pain can be effectively treated within 4 to 6 weeks of home treatment, but a ruptured or slipped disk often requires intensive medical care.

Home Remedies
  • Cold pack: Apply a cold pack (bag of ice) to the painful area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Apply at least three times a day.
  • Garlic: Take two or three cloves of garlic every morning.
  • Ginger: Apply a paste made of ginger powder mixed with sufficient water to the affected area. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, wash it off, and then rub the back with some eucalyptus (Nilgiri) oil.
  • Garlic oil: Rubbing the painful area of the back with garlic oil is also effective for relieving the pain. The oil is prepared by frying 10 cloves of garlic in 60 ml of mustard oil or sesame oil on a slow fire till the garlic turn brown. Then, the cooled oil should be applied vigorously on the back, and allowed to remain there for 2 or 3 hours. Take a warm bath afterwards. It should be done for atleast 15 days.
  • Lemon: Take the juice of one lemon mixed with little common salt twice a day.
  • Potato: Application of raw potato in the form of a poultice is very effective, especially in a low backache.
Do's
  • If you are overweight, lose weight.
  • Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes/sandals.
  • Make sure your work surface is at a comfortable height for you.
  • Use a chair with a good lower back support.
  • If you are sitting for a long period of time, try resting your feet on the floor, or on a low stool. Take frequent breaks to stretch.
  • If you have to drive long distances, try using a pillow or rolled-up towel behind the small of your back. Also, be sure to stop often and walk around for a few minutes.
  • If you have trouble sleeping, try sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees, or sleep on your side with your knees bent and a pillow between your knees.
  • Sit quietly and meditate, or observe your breathing. This will help to relax tense muscles.
  • Get regular, low-impact exercise. Some gentle yoga exercises can help to relieve the pain.
  • Practice safe ways of lifting and moving heavy objects to reduce the risk of straining your back. While lifting, bend your knees and keep your back straight, keep the object you are lifting close to your belly button, and avoid lifting and twisting at the same time.
Don’ts
  • Avoid exposure to cold weather or cold winds.
  • If you smoke, quit. Smoking decreases blood flow and prevents healing.
  • Avoid over physical exercise.
  • Avoid heavy lifting.
  • Avoid lifting with twisting, bending forward, or reaching.
  • Avoid sitting for long periods of time. Change your position frequently (every 15 to 30 minutes).
See Doctor
  • Have severe Backache.
  • Back pain follows an injury.
  • Losing weight or have a fever.
  • Have difficulty in controlling your bowels or bladder; tingling and numbness in the anal or genital area; or muscle weakness

Health Tips


Fruits and Vegetables
Diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help you ward off heart disease and stroke, control blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent some types of cancer, avoid a painful intestinal ailment called diverticulitis, and guard against cataract and macular degeneration, two common causes of vision loss.

Exercise
Regular exercise can do everyone a world of good. It helps prevent heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and a host of other diseases, and is a key ingredient for losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight. Walking is an ideal exercise for many people - it doesn't require any special equipment, can be done any time and any place, and is generally very safe.

Apple
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is fact, not just folklore. Today, research suggests that apple play a significant role in anticancer, lowering blood cholesterol levels so acts as a preventative for heart and arterial disorders.

Almonds
Almond is considered as nerve tonic, excellent skin food, have some antiseptic properties, helping to cleanse the digestive system.

Carrot
Carrots’ antioxidant compound helps to protect against cardiovascular disease, cancer and also promote good vision, especially night vision.

Garlic
Garlic is recognized as a natural ‘wonder drug’ for thousands of years. Medical research indicates garlic prevents from high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, and cholesterol, it also boosts your immune system.

Pineapple
Pineapple is a good source of manganese, vitamin C and vitamin B. Vitamin C helps to boost body's immune system. Pineapple juice before meal is ideal for easing indigestion and gastritis. Pineapple is diuretic and cleansing, and can be helpful for arthritis, gout, kidney stone, and sinusitis. Gargling with the juice is useful alternative for sore throats.

Grains

Grains


NutrientsProperties
CornVitamin A, B, C, beta-carotene, folate, magnesium, zinc, fiberAnti-allergenic, Anti-cancer, Anti-oxidant, Good for heart
RiceVitamin B, iron, folate, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, copper, zinc, fiber, protein, carbohydrate Anti-allergenic, Anti-cancer, Anti-oxidant, Detoxifying, Good for heart
Soy beanVitamin B, E, iron, calcium, folate, magnesium, manganese, potassium, zinc, contain all 8 essential amino acidAnti-cancer, Anti-oxidant, detoxifying, Good for heart, Anti-inflammatory, Help to cope with stress,Control menopausal symptoms like hot flushes
WheatVitamin B, E, protein, iron, folate, magnesium, manganese, selenium, zinc, fiber Anti-bacterial, Anti-viral, Anti-cancer, Anti-oxidant, Good for heart 

This information is not a substitute for professional medical or health advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. The site disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

Fruits

Fruits

NutrientsProperties
AppleVitamin C, iron, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, calcium, sulphur, flavonoids, fiber, malic acidDetoxifying, Anti-viral, Good for heart,Help intestinal infections and acidity
BananaVitamin B3, B5, B6, C, potassium, magnesium, iron, glucose, fiberAnti-viral, Anti-cancer, Detoxifying, Good for heart, Treat constipation, ulcers, enhance immune system
Cantaloupe melonVitamin B3, C, beta-caroteneAnti-viral, Anti-cancer, Anti-bacterial, Anti-oxidant, Detoxifying, Good for heart
GrapesVitamin B3, B6, biotin, glucose, potassium, selenium, zincAnti-oxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Detoxifying, Good for heart. Useful for anemia, liver malfunctions such as hepatitis and jaundice. 
GrapefruitPotassium, folate, iron, amino acids, zinc, vitamin B and CProtects arteries, aids digestion, and boosts the immune system.
GuavaVitamin B3, C, beta-carotene, fiberAnti-viral, Anti-cancer, Anti-oxidant, Good for rheumatoid arthritis
LemonVitamin C, folate, potassium, fiberAnti-septic, Anti-fungal, Anti-cancer, Anti-oxidant, Good for healthy skin and gums
MangoVitamin B3, C, E, beta-carotene, fiberAnti-viral, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-oxidant, Good for heart
OrangeVitamin B3, B5, C, carotenoids, folate, iron, potassium, calcium.Anti-viral, Anti-bacterial, Anti-oxidant, Anti-cancer, Detoxifying, Good for heart, Improves weak digestion & immunity 
PapayaVitamin C, carotenoids, folate, potassium, fiberAnti-cancer, Anti-oxidant, Good for cardiovascular disease, Improves digestion, Rids intestinal worms, Eases inflammation and constipation
PineappleVitamin B, C, manganese, potassium, iron, folate, sucrose, fiberAnti-cancer, Anti-oxidant, Anti-inflammatory, good for heart. Good for sinusitis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout. Diuretic, detoxifies, purifies blood, prevent blood clots and increases circulation
PomegranateCalcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, vitamin CAids digestion, Destroys intestional worms
StrawberryVitamin B3, B5, C, flavonoids, fiberVitamin B3, B5, C, flavonoids, fiber
WatermelonPhosphorus, potassium, sodium, calcium, iron, sucrose, vitamins B and E Diuretic, helps weight loss, treats kidney and urinary tract problems 

Dry Fruits


NutrientsProperties
AlmondVitamin B, E, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, phosphorous, omega 6 fatty acidAnti-oxidant, Good for heart, Excellent skin food
Cashew nutVitamin B, biotin, folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iodine, selenium, proteinAnti-oxidant, Anti-viral, Good for heart, Lowers cholesterol level
PistaVitamin B, E, calcium, magnesium, potassium, maganese, omega 6 fatty acidAnti-allergenic, Anti-viral,Detoxyfying, Good for heart
WalnutVitamin B, folate, calcium, iron, selenium, zinc, omega 6 fatty acidAnti-oxidant, Good for heart, Lowers cholesterol level

This information is not a substitute for professional medical or health advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. The site disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information

Vegetables

Vegetables

NutrientsProperties
BeetFolate, iron, manganese, protein, fiber, potassiumAnti-inflammatory, Anticancer, Blood purifier, Good for heart
BroccoliVitamin B, C, E, folate, betacarotene, calcium, iron, zincAnti-oxidant , Anti-cancer, Anti-viral, Good for heart
CarrotVitamin K,betacarotene, calcium, folate, iron, zinc, chromium, fiberAnti-oxidant, Detoxifying, Anti-inflammatory, Good for heart, Beneficial for eye health, and vision
CauliflowerVitamin B, C, calcium, zinc, potassium, folate, fiberAnti-oxidant , Anti-cancer,Anti-allergenic, Good for heart
OnionVitamin B, sulfur compoundsAnti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Detoxifying, Good for heart
PotatoVitamin B, C, potassium, copper, folate, fiberAnti-oxidant, Anti-cancer
Pumpkin(orange)Vitamin C, betacarotene, fiberAnti-cancer, Anti-oxidant
SpinachVitamin B, E, folate, calcium, zinc, magnesium, fiberAnti-oxidant, Anti-cancer, Good for heart
Sweet PotatoVitamin B, C, E, betacarotene, iron, potassium, fiberAnti-oxidant, Anti-cancer, Good for heart
TomatoVitamin B, C, E, Betacarotene, PotassiumAnti-oxidant, Anti-cancer, Anti-viral 

This information is not a substitute for professional medical or health advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. The site disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

Immunity Boosters

Immunity Boosters

To maintain good health, efficient immune system is the key factor. It acts like defending army. It helps to protect from all types of diseases from common cold to cancer, keeps allergies in check as well as slows down the ageing process. The persons with strong immunity fell less prone to diseases.

Poor diet will result in a weakened immune system. Others factors such as stress, smoking, excess alcohol and caffeine, food additives, pesticides, pollution, lack of sleep and exercise also weakens the immune system.

VegetablesFruitsGrains

Protein
It is required to manufacture all cells including antibodies and enzymes so protein is vital for strong immunity.

Vitamins
Vitamin A helps to maintain the thymus gland which is the part of lymph system and is powerfully antiviral.
Vitamin B-complex is important for the activity of phagocyte.
Vitamin C is needed for the function of entire immune system.
Vitamin E is a powerful anti-oxidant which helps to stimulate antibody production.

Minerals
Iron builds up overall resistance. Calcium helps the phagocyte cells to carry out their cleaning-up duty. Selenium is necessary for the production of antibodies. Zinc is necessary for the maturation of T-cells (which are produced in the thymus gland which destroy foreign bodies directly)

Fiber
Fiber is vital for healthy digestive system – it keeps the colon clear and prevents the build-up of toxins and helps to prevent overgrowth of bad bacteria.

Exercise
It stimulates the circulation, improving the oxygen supply to the organs. Simply staying generally active and walking briskly for half an hour every day will help.

Others
The importance of having positive attitude to life and a good social network cannot be overestimated –studies have revealed that laughing, being optimistic and sharing a joke with friends can boost the immune system. Proper sleep is also important and exposure to natural daylight is key to stimulating both mood and immunity. Yoga and meditation can release stress and help you to relax. 

Arthritis

Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation of a joint or joints, usually accompanied by pain, stiffness (especially early morning) restricted movement, and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are most well known. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can affect anyone at any stage of life, which affects not only the joints of the fingers, wrists, hips, knees, and feet, but also the muscles, tendons and other tissues of the body. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disorder which usually occurs in the older age-group.

The diet of the arthritis patient should be planned along alkaline lines and should include fruits and vegetables for protection and proteins and carbohydrates for energy. 

Home Remedies
  • Sesame seeds: Soak 1 teaspoon of black sesame seeds in a quarter cup of water overnight. Take the seeds along with water first thing in the morning. This has been found effective in preventing frequent joint pains.
  • Garlic: Eat 2-3 cloves of garlic everyday. Garlic has an anti-inflammatory property which accounts for its effectiveness in the treatment of arthritis.
  • Ginger: Apply ginger compresses on the affected area which will ease pain.
  • Potato: The raw potato juice therapy is considered one of the most successful biological treatment for rheumatic and arthritic conditions. Dilute medium-sized potato in a glass of water (place the thin potato slices without peeling the skin overnight in a large glass filled with water) and drink in the morning on an empty stomach.
  • Coconut: On an empty stomach take 3-4 walnuts or one fresh coconut.
  • Pineapple: Drink a cup of fresh pineapple juice which is also valuable. The enzyme in fresh pineapple juice, bromelain reduces swelling and inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Honey and cinnamon: Take one tablespoons of honey and half teaspoon of cinnamon powder in one cup of hot water thrice a day. When taken daily even chronic arthritis can be cured.
  • Green gram: Prepare green gram soup by mixing a tablespoon of green gram in a cup of water, with two crushed garlic cloves. Take this soup twice a day.
  • Ginger: Drink one cup of ginger tea with two teaspoons of castor oil added before going to bed. Expect some laxative effect from castor oil. Castor oil contains natural precursors of steroids, which help to heal the inflammatory condition of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Massage: Massage joints in case of stiff and aching joints using warm coconut oil or mustard oil mixed with camphor. It will increase blood supply and reduce inflammation and stiffness on account of gentle warmth produced while massaging.
  • Sea bath: Sea bathing is considered beneficial in the treatment of arthritis. The natural iodine in the sea water is said to relieve arthritis pain. Iodine regulates the acid-alkaline balance in the blood and tissues which helps to repair and regenerate worn out tissues and nourishes the skeletal structure. If sea bathing is not possible relax for 30 minutes every night in a tub of warm water in which a cupful of sea salt has been mixed.
Do's
  • Include lots of fresh fruits and vegetables in diet. Cabbage, carrot, cucumber, celery, lettuce, onion, radishes and tomatoesmay be used as raw salad. The cooked vegetables may include asparagus, beets, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, celery, brinjal, mushroom, onions, peas, spinach, tomatoes, squash and turnips.
  • Drink water kept overnight in a copper container. This water has traces of copper which helps strengthen the muscular system. For the same reason wearing copper ring or bracelet will also help.
  • Exercise moderately when there is no acute inflammation in the joints. Do light exercises such as walking, hiking and swimming which are beneficial.
  • Keep body warm.
  • Maintain normal body weight which is also an important factor in preventing arthritis.
  • Do yoga daily. Yogic asanas which is helpful in curing arthritis are trikonasana, shalabhasana, bhujangasana, vakrasana and shavasana.
Don’ts
  • Avoid junk food and fatty, greasy foods.
  • Avoid hydrogenated oils.
  • Avoid cold foods and drinks.
  • Avoid constipation as it poisons the system and adds to the irritation and inflammation of the joints.
See Doctor
  • Pain is becoming worse and develops new symptoms.
  • Having severe pain with swollen, red and hot joints and have a fever.